Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina has appealed for one year to address the nation’s deepening challenges, pledging to step down if he fails to deliver.

Speaking to supporters, Rajoelina urged honesty over sycophancy. “I don’t want flattery. I want to hear the truth. It’s the people who kept telling me that everything was fine who are responsible for our current situation,” he said.

His remarks come amid growing pressure from the youth movement Gen Z Mada, which has been leading street protests and demanding his resignation.

The group dismissed the president’s call for dialogue, accusing the government of repressing young people. It has also announced plans for fresh demonstrations on Thursday.

The protest wave, which began on September 25 over persistent power and water shortages, has since widened to include demands for action on corruption, unemployment, and rising living costs.